Marble Recap, Part 1

I arrived home safe and sound from Marble, Colorado last week. And it was a great time, as always. I did the usual. Camped, hiked, swam, hung out with friends. Ate, drank, talked about life and art. I even fished and caught my first trout ever. Oh yeah, and I carved marble too. More on that in Part 2.

The place really brings out the best in me. I wish that I could be like that all of the time, all year round. I just get into this great mind-set. It's like I totally allow myself to see how it good it can be when you don't let life's little worries and distractions get you down.

When I am there I embrace the idea of slowing down and achieving balance. I always give myself plenty of time to appreciate the surrounding area. I hike pretty much every morning and never fret about what time I start work. I only carve when I feel strong mentally and physically. I listen to my body and my mind. I do what I want when I want. I enjoy social time with my friends, most of whom I only see once a year at that place. I allow myself to enjoy and even revel in pleasurable experiences. It's quite the utopia.

It's not real life, I know that. But I know that if I can apply even a little bit of that mind-set to my regular, every day life I will be a happier and more joyful person. If nothing else, it gives me a great re-charge and always helps me feel excited and motivated about art.

How can you not feel joy in a place that looks like this?



I was also fortunate to be able to visit my friend Krista in Moab for a few days between sessions. It was a wonderful break from the mountains. The area surrounding where she lives is gorgeous. It is so important to take time to appreciate natural beauty. I was overtaken.



Anyway, it is nice to be home. Sleeping in my own bed feels really good. Also, so does a hot shower. Although it is fun to bathe in the lake and my solar shower does a pretty darn good job of getting me clean. Still, I couldn't be a Mountain Girl year-round. The thunder storms can be a challenge.

The best thing about going to Marble every year is that there is always something new to discover. And I am able to do that by giving myself the time to explore my surroundings and enjoy myself. I challenge anyone, myself included, to incorporate that into their daily lives. It is completely worthwhile. Life is only what you make it. There is no better time then right now to be thoroughly and completely happy and enjoy life to the fullest. Why wouldn't you?

Joyfulness Tip of the Day: Do what makes you happy!